Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars

Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars

Indulging in a bite of Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars is like tasting little morsels of heaven on earth. This recipe is a delightful blend of creamy, crunchy, and sweet flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy! With this step-by-step guide, you’ll create an irresistibly rich treat that combines the iconic crunch of Butterfinger candy bars, buttery goodness, and a luscious caramel drizzle. Each bite offers a symphony of textures—from the moist, tender base to the smooth, flowing caramel and scattered chocolate chips, delivering an emotional experience that makes every gathering joyous.

History / Fun Fact

Nestled within the spectrum of dessert bars is the ever-humble Candy Bar Crunch, specifically the Butterfinger creation that ignited this recipe. Butterfinger candy bars were first produced by the Curtiss Candy Company in 1923 and have maintained a devoted following ever since. Americans fell in love with their unique combination of crunchy peanut butter and chocolate, resulting in the birth of countless delicious dessert recipes. The Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars exemplify a modern twist that entreats the classic candy bar into delightful baked treats. Whether it’s a family gathering, a potluck, or simply a night in, these bars embody sweet nostalgia that resonates with both young and old alike.

Ingredients

Creating these Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars requires a few special ingredients that meld together for a remarkable treat:

• 2 cups crushed Butterfinger candy bars: The epitome of classic indulgence, delivering a delightful combination of crispy peanut butter and chocolate that lends its essence to our bars.

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The base of our dish, this fine white flour creates a tender and soft texture that balances the crunchiness perfectly.

• 1/2 cup powdered sugar: This airy, sweet ingredient melts seamlessly into our mixture for a subtle sweetness that complements the candy’s richness.

• 1 cup butter, melted: The fragrant, creamy essence of melted butter infuses the bars with warmth, further enhancing the textural contrast within.

• 1 cup caramel sauce: Rich and gooey, this sauce drapes over the bars like a warm hug, adding both a glossy finish and an irresistible sweetness.

• 1/2 cup chocolate chips: These semi-sweet morsels provide additional texture and richness, transforming this dessert into a chocolate lover’s fantasy.

Cooking Time & Tips for Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars

When it comes to preparing these Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars, you’ll find that there’s a distinction between a quick and a slow preparation style. Quick preparation typically refers to ensuring that you have your ingredients ready and your techniques streamlined for efficient baking. Variations of this recipe can yield a slight difference in flavor or texture based on how you prepare or bake them.

For best results, consider these practical tips for success: Always weigh your flour for accuracy, ensure your butter is melted but not hot, and allow the bars to cool completely before cutting—this prevents crumbling and ensures clean edges. Patience will reward you with perfectly formed bars that are easy to handle and even easier to enjoy.

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step ensures that your Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars will bake evenly, creating that perfect golden-brown crust.

2. In a large bowl, combine the crushed Butterfinger candy bars, flour, powdered sugar, and melted butter. Allow your senses to awaken as you mix—the sweet aroma of candy fuses seamlessly with the flour, resulting in a lovely texture.

3. Press the mixture into the bottom of a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Use your hands or a spatula to spread the mixture out evenly; envision the base layer as the foundation of a sweet architectural wonder.

4. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown. Keep an eye on the oven—this is the moment where the magic happens, transforming the mixture into a delectable crust that’s both fragrant and irresistible.

5. Remove from the oven and immediately drizzle the caramel sauce over the hot crust. As the sauce warms, it will create a luxurious pool of flavor, spreading smoothly across the surface.

6. Sprinkle the chocolate chips on top of the caramel. Watch as they begin to melt slightly, creating a visual feast with enticing richness.

7. Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting into squares and serving. The anticipation will build, but patience pays off with bars that are easier to slice and even more enjoyable to savor.

Serving Suggestions & Occasions

Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars serve as the perfect indulgence for a wide array of occasions. They shine at birthday parties, where their nostalgic candy flavor delights guests of all ages. A contribution to a potluck transforms them into a crowd favorite, eliciting nods of approval and requests for the recipe. They also make a fantastic accompaniment to a late-night movie marathon—pair them with a cozy blanket and your favorite film for an ultimate treat experience. The bars can also be served alongside fresh whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to elevate the dessert experience even further.

Common Mistakes for Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars

Even simple recipes can pose challenges. Some common pitfalls include overmixing the batter, which can lead to tough bars. Others may overlook preheating the oven, resulting in uneven baking. Use the correct measurements, especially when measuring powdered sugar and flour, to avoid a dry or overly sweet outcome. If your caramel sauce is too thick, it might not spread evenly, so ensure you’re using a smooth, pourable consistency. Don’t rush the cooling process, as this might fracture your bars into jagged edges.

Healthier Alternatives & Variations

While indulgence is key in Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars, there are ways to make these treats a bit lighter. You can substitute half of the butter with applesauce for a moist yet healthier alternative. Using whole wheat flour can add additional fiber, while using coconut or almond flour can cater to gluten-free diets. To reduce sugar, you could try a sugar alternative like Stevia or erythritol in the crust and caramel sauce. For chocolate chip lovers, opt for dark chocolate chips, which can offer a richer flavor and a bit of antioxidant goodness.

FAQs

1. Can I substitute Butterfinger bars with another candy?

   • Yes! Other crunchy chocolate bars such as Snickers or Twix can be used to create your version of crunch bars.

2. How do I store leftover bars?

   • Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them for up to three months.

3. Can I make these bars gluten-free?

   • Absolutely! Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version.

4. What can I add to customize my bars?

   • Consider adding nuts, mini marshmallows, or a drizzle of peanut butter for additional flavor and texture enhancement.

5. How do I ensure my bars don’t crumble when cut?

   • Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting. You can also chill them in the refrigerator for easier slicing.

6. What is the best way to serve these bars?

   • Serve the bars chilled or at room temperature. They can be enjoyed as is or warmed slightly in the microwave for that melty chocolate experience.

Conclusion

The Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars beckon you to the kitchen, inviting you to create a sweet symphony of flavors right from the comfort of your home. With their delightful blend of textures and nostalgic sweet elements, these bars will surely captivate anyone who takes a bite. So, gather your ingredients, follow the step-by-step guide, and treat yourself and your loved ones to this heavenly indulgence—it’s hard to resist a good bar of crunchy, caramel goodness! Indulge today; you won’t regret it!

Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars

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• Author: melon-claire
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 16 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Delight in these rich Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars, a perfect blend of creamy, crunchy, and sweet flavors that create a nostalgic treat for any occasion.

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Ingredients

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• 2 cups crushed Butterfinger candy bars
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 cup butter, melted
• 1 cup caramel sauce
• 1/2 cup chocolate chips

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the crushed Butterfinger candy bars, flour, powdered sugar, and melted butter.
3. Press the mixture into the bottom of a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Remove from the oven and immediately drizzle the caramel sauce over the hot crust.
6. Sprinkle the chocolate chips on top of the caramel.
7. Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting into squares and serving.

Notes

Weigh your flour for accuracy and let the butter cool before mixing. Patience is key in allowing the bars to cool completely for easier cutting.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bar
• Calories: 340
• Sugar: 25g
• Sodium: 200mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 35mg